Class description

Course Overview:

In this hands-on Dovetail Stools workshop, you’ll learn how to construct a beautifully crafted step stool using traditional joinery techniques, including hand-cut dovetails and through wedged mortise and tenons. Designed for both beginners and intermediate students, this two-day course focuses on essential woodworking skills, tool mastery, and refined craftsmanship. Guided by experienced instructors, you’ll gain skills that can elevate the quality of your future projects, from small furnishings to decorative pieces.

 

Why You’ll Love This Class:

  • Master Key Joinery Techniques: Learn the fundamentals of dovetailing and through wedged tenons, building strong and attractive joints using hand tools and select power tools.
  • Create a Functional Piece: By the end of the course, you’ll have completed your own step stool, showcasing the skills you’ve gained and providing a practical addition to your home.
  • Hands-On Tool Experience: Get comfortable with essential tools like hand saws, chisels, hand planes, and the drill press, gaining confidence and skill with each session.
  • Attention to Detail: Develop an understanding of dovetail geometry and grain alignment for both structural integrity and aesthetic appeal in woodworking projects.
  • Welcoming Environment: Join a friendly and supportive workshop designed for those with little to no experience, as well as intermediate students looking to enhance their skills. Students aged 14+ are welcome!

Learning Objectives and Outcomes:

  • Precision Joinery Skills: Learn how to cut dovetails and create through wedged tenons accurately, essential skills for traditional joinery projects.
  • Tool Proficiency: Gain hands-on experience using hand saws, chisels, hand planes, and marking tools, alongside basic power tools like the drill press.
  • Wood Selection and Grain Considerations: Understand the importance of wood grain and its role in creating strong, visually appealing joints.
  • Project Completion: Leave the workshop with a completed step stool, crafted by your own hands and reflecting the traditional woodworking techniques you’ve learned.

Course Content and Structure:

This two-day workshop balances theory and hands-on practice, ensuring you gain both understanding and experience. You’ll start with an introduction to essential hand tools and learn the basics of dovetail geometry and wood selection. From there, you’ll move into crafting, practicing cuts, joinery, and assembly. Each day focuses on building your skills, allowing you to complete a finished step stool by the end of the course.


Hands-On Experience:

This course is entirely hands-on, with each participant actively working with their own set of tools. Under the guidance of experienced instructors, you’ll receive personalized feedback, ensuring you leave with both confidence in your abilities and a finished project that showcases your skills.


Join Us and Start Crafting:

Sign up for our Dovetail Stools workshop and dive into the rewarding art of traditional joinery. Whether you’re just beginning your woodworking journey or looking to refine your skills, this class offers the perfect blend of instruction, practice, and accomplishment. Reserve your spot today and start creating!

WHAT YOU'LL GET

You’ll not only have crafted functional pieces of furniture, but also mastered the intricate art of dovetail joinery. With newfound skills in cutting, fitting, and assembling with precision, you’ll be well-equipped to tackle more advanced woodworking projects confidently.

WHAT TO BRINg

PPE will be supplied however students wishing to bring their own should come with a face mask, safety glasses or goggles and earmuffs or earplugs.

Closed shoes are a mandatory requirement for all students.

Those with their own tools relevant to the class should bring them along to get better accustomed at using your own tools but we also supply all tools if you don’t have any.

We have a kitchen onsite with fridge and microwave for those that want to bring their own food, and there are also takeaway options within walking distance.

WORK SHOP location

12 Gerald Street, Marrickville NSW

client reviews

  • Tickets $420

Gift Card

  • Your recipient chooses the class and date
  • Use on any of our classes at any location

About Nicholas Elliott

Nick began his career in the timber industry by undertaking a cabinetmaking apprenticeship after developing a love for working with wood during high school. He went on to study Fine Furniture Design and Making at Sturt School for Wood. Now a high school Industrial Arts teacher, his aim is to share his knowledge and skills to help others find their passion for working with wood.
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